The Simmons Beautyrest line includes some budget models.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

Could an old mattress be responsible for a lackluster love life? A recent survey found that almost a quarter of respondents with a mattress more than 10 years old report less romance in their lives — and most blame the mattress. Turns out this research was conducted on behalf of Sleepy’s, the mattress retailer, so the suggestion that a new mattress might be in order comes as no surprise.

Still, with Valentine’s Day less than a week away, this kind of thing can get you thinking. A new mattress is undoubtedly a major purchase. The price of even a traditional innerspring mattress can top $5,000, and experts warn that the very cheapest off-brand mattresses aren’t worth it. However, the big three  — Sealy, Serta, and Simmons — offer well-regarded queen-size mattress and box spring sets for less than $600. That amounts to mere pennies a night if the mattress lasts even five years. This is also one of those categories where sales seem constant and almost no one pays full price. Although a box spring isn’t always necessary, the warranty may stipulate that the mattress be used with the appropriate component. 

It may seem strange to lie down for a nap in the middle of a store, but it’s important to test different mattresses for comfort. Even on the low end, the various fiber, foam, and coil combinations present a wide range of options. These all have different names depending on the manufacturer, the retailer, and even the geographic region, which makes comparison shopping a challenge.

In general, look for more layers of padding if you enjoy a soft mattress or sleep on your side and fewer if you sleep on your back and like your bed to be firm. Pay attention to the quality of the materials that make up those layers; the padding on some inexpensive mattresses is apt to deteriorate. Finally, don’t worry too much about the number of coils — 375 is plenty for a queen-size mattress, according to GoodBed. What matters more is the construction and positioning of the coils.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable mattresses.

• The Serta Perfect Sleeper series (starting at $560) is lauded for being firm yet comfortable, and the mattresses are covered under warranty for up to 10 years. The design was developed in partnership with the National Sleep Foundation. (Where to buy)
• The Simmons Beautyrest series (starting at $477) earns praise from users for offering a range of firmness levels. Mattresses come with a 10-year warranty and a whopping 800 pocketed coil springs, which are intended to isolate movement and keep people from disturbing their partners. (Where to buy)
• The Sealy Posturepedic series (starting at $391) is designed to support the back and relieve pressure on the shoulders and hips. The Sealy brand rated highest in a survey of customer satisfaction and offers a 10-year warranty. (Where to buy)

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By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

On and leading up to Feb. 14, men and women flush with ardor will render florists, fine jewelers, and restaurateurs flush with cash. Valentine’s Day gifts cost the average consumer more than $100 each year, according to the National Retail Federation. High-end chocolates certainly contribute to that outlay. The best inexpensive chocolates may not have wine-like labels that specify geographic origin and vintage as some artisanal varieties do, but they can satisfy for less.

Chocolate comes in three basic varieties: dark, milk, and white. Dark chocolate has enjoyed a spate of positive press in recent years, thanks to research that suggests antioxidants from the cacao bean may, amond other findings, lower blood pressure. The Food and Drug Administration requires dark chocolate to contain a certain percentage of chocolate liquor, which is made from cocoa butter and nonfat cocoa solids (but no alcohol, despite the name). The higher the percentage, the greater the potential health benefits, scientists say. (The National Institutes of Health cautions that, while those benefits are tantalizing, the negative effects of excessive fat, sugar, and calories are beyond doubt.)

Buying dark chocolate could earn you extra brownie points for being concerned with the health of your significant other, but it could also backfire. The ingredients touted by researchers make dark chocolate more bitter than milk chocolate or white chocolate. Milk chocolate is more familiar to Americans and contains milk ingredients (no surprise there) in addition to cocoa solids, cocoa butter, and sugar. White chocolate is made from cocoa butter, milk, and sugar but contains no cocoa solids.

These different types of chocolate can take a few different forms. There are chocolate bars, of course, and the chocolate-dipped candies known as bonbons. Truffles feature creamy ganache encased in a chocolate shell. All can be dressed up with nuts, fruit, or other flavors.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable chocolate.

• Lindt Lindor Truffles (starting at $8 for a 5.1 oz. box, or 67 cents a piece) come in dark, milk, and white chocolate varieties. In a blind taste test, our panel found the ganache in all three smooth and delectable. The dark truffles proved sweeter than they expected. (Where to buy)
• Cadbury Royal Dark Chocolate (starting at $2.19 for a 4 oz. bar) wins the admiration even of those who prefer milk chocolate. Tasters describe a pleasing texture and a semi-sweet taste with notes of cinnamon. (Where to buy)
• Dove Silky Smooth Dark Chocolate (starting at 79 cents for a 1.3 oz. bar) isn’t exactly silky smooth, according to our tasters. However, it is a mild dark chocolate with a nice sweetness. (Where to buy)
• The Trader Joe's Box of Chocolates (starting at $4.99 for a 16 oz. box, or 15 cents a piece) is unavailable online, so only those with a Trader Joe’s store nearby can get their hands on this assortment. Our panel singled out the all-chocolate bonbons; others are filled with caramel, toffee, or fruit-flavored cream. A guide inside the box reveals which is which, and the whole thing is wrapped in heart-patterned paper.

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The K2 Vandal youth board is also a cheap option for small adults.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

Recent snow in many regions of the country has resorts rejoicing and snowboarders raring to hit the slopes and terrain parks. There’s still time for beginners to take advantage of deals on lessons as part of Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month. Many offers include lift tickets and rental equipment. If you’re ready for your own gear, you can find an entry-level snowboard for less than $300 from a brand such as Forum, K2, Ride, Salomon, or even Burton. That’s not to mention the bargains available on snowboards from previous seasons.

Most budget boards are designed for entry-level to intermediate snowboarders, with features that make them more forgiving. They tend to have a softer flex, which means they bend and twist more easily than stiffer boards built for high speeds. That gives even younger, smaller snowboarders more control and helps park riders initiate jumps. Manufacturers often give their boards a flex rating on a 1-to-5 or 1-to-10 scale, with 1 being the softest.

Low-cost boards are typically the same shape at both ends, which makes it easy for snowboarders to ride regular (with the left foot in front) or switch (with the right foot in front). These so-called “twin-tip” boards come in two different varieties. Riders who already know their preferred stance can opt for a directional twin, which is stiffer at the tail or back end of the board, allowing for more controlled turns. A true twin has uniform flex throughout.

Traditionally snowboards have had a bit of an arch in the center, known as camber, that’s forced flat against the ground by the rider’s body weight, resulting in springy, responsive performance. These days, inexpensive boards commonly feature reverse camber, or rocker, where the center of the board curves toward the ground and the ends lift off the snow. This helps keep beginners from catching an edge, making rocker an appealing choice for any rider who prefers smooth landings to face plants. One drawback is the board doesn’t grip the snow as well when you’re speeding downhill trying to make aggressive turns. A snowboard with flat or zero camber has a flat base that sits flush against the snow and combines attributes of both traditional and reverse camber.

Finally, inexpensive snowboards feature extruded bases, which are generally slower but easier to maintain and repair than the sintered bases on pricier boards.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable snowboards.

• The Salomon Pulse (starting at $249) is a directional twin board that earns kudos for its versatility. The flat camber provides more stability than rocker but still helps new riders avoid catching an edge. (Where to buy)
• The K2 Vandal youth board (starting at $200) comes in sizes big enough to suit some small adults as well. Experts recommend this true twin board with rocker for riders itching to learn some tricks in the terrain park. (Where to buy)
• The Forum Recon (starting at $300) transitions easily from the park to powder to groomed runs, according to experts. This is a directional twin board with rocker and a soft to medium flex. (Where to buy)
• The Ride Lowride (starting at $170) is a smaller junior board that experts favor for learning. It has the softest flex in the line and a true twin shape with rocker. Ride also offers the nearly identical Blush, with more feminine graphics, for girls. (Where to buy)

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Making your own food choices requires discipline, but can save you some money.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

New years and resolutions to lose weight go together like ice cream and cake — er, rather salad and low-fat dressing. Not surprisingly, there are deals galore on diet plans right now. But there’s no use taking advantage of a waived sign-up fee if you ultimately can’t afford the plan itself. After all, what good is a weight-loss plan if the stress on your budget leads to emotional eating? Luckily several diet plans responsible for numerous success stories start at less than $20 per month.

Generally the low-cost options are book-based or support-only plans, as opposed to food-delivery programs like Nutrisystem and Jenny Craig, which send subscribers carefully calibrated meals. Making your own food choices requires more discipline, even with the help of recipes, meal plans, online tools, and support from fellow dieters. If you can handle it, however, you can save money and develop healthful habits — including an ongoing exercise routine — that will help keep your weight down even after you go off a formal plan.

Want to lose weight? Join the 25,000-pound challenge

According to an expert at Mayo Clinic, the prevailing weight-loss guideline of one to two pounds per week offers the greatest likelihood of long-term success. At that rate it may take a while to get to a point where you could hold up an old pair of pants on TV, but a slow, steady approach has proved safe and effective. Whichever weight-loss plan you choose, be sure to consult your doctor before you begin.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable diet plans.

• Weight Watchers (online membership starting at $18.95 for 28 days) combines dietary requirements with physical activity and online or in-person support. Subscribers track what they eat using a points system that favors high-fiber, low-fat foods. Weight Watchers caps the number of points allowed each day and increases the allotment if you exercise. The program boasts multitudes of satisfied customers. (Where to buy)
• eDiets (online membership starting at $18.95 for 28 days) offers a food-delivery service as well as a support-only option. Customers register numerous complaints about the food, from preparation to packaging and delivery. The more cost-efficient online diet plans, on the other hand, claim many admirers. The personalized plans include 24/7 online support, and members credit the program with instilling resistance to impulse buying and binge eating. (Where to buy)
• The South Beach Diet (online membership starting at $4 per week; books starting at $7.99) places strict limits on your carb intake at the beginning, then slowly re-introduces whole grains, fruits, and starchy vegetables. The membership includes meal plans, peer support, and online tools for tracking your progress. The latest version incorporates exercise. Adherents report that the diet yields speedy results and is easy to maintain. (Where to buy)

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The 42-inch Vizio E3D420VX offers 3D capability.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

The college football national championship may be behind us, but the biggest game of the year is coming up on Feb. 5. Frugal football fans can watch the Super Bowl on a brand-new LCD TV for less than $600. LCD stands for liquid crystal display, technology that has allowed sleek, space-saving flat-screens to replace conventional cathode-ray-tube TVs. Brands including LG, Samsung, Sharp, Sony, and Toshiba offer budget models up to 42 inches.  

Man cavers will no doubt want the biggest screen they can afford, but the picture will appear grainy and distorted unless there’s room to sit far enough away. Do a quick calculation to determine the maximum screen size for your space: Measure the distance between the seating area and the spot where the TV will go, then divide by 1.5. For instance, if your favorite recliner is only 48 inches from the wall where you want to mount a new TV, you should look for a 32-inch screen.

One of the most commonly cited specs on an LCD TV is the resolution. The best available is 1080p, which provides the sharpest, clearest high-definition picture. You can easily find a 1080p TV for less than $600. However, keep in mind that the images you see won’t be in high-def unless you have HD channels and/or a Blu-ray player as well.

A screen with 1080p resolution displays 1,080 rows of pixels from top to bottom. The “p” refers to progressive scan, which keeps the screen from flickering when the image refreshes. The refresh rate is measured in hertz, and even low-cost TVs have rates of at least 60 Hz. A higher refresh rate of 120 Hz, available on some budget models, reduces blurring when you’re watching a fast-paced sporting event or playing a video game.

While the best low-priced LCD TVs offer excellent viewing, they simply can’t match the deep black levels that make colors pop on more expensive screens. Pricier models have higher contrast ratios, which represent the difference between the darkest and lightest colors on the screen. Watch out for manufacturers who tout dynamic contrast ratios of 10,000:1 or 100,000:1. The number to look for is the static contrast ratio, which is much lower but more accurate.

Manufacturers often max out settings such as contrast and brightness so a TV will stand out on a retail floor. Factory settings aren’t optimal for a living room, however, so it's best to adjust them.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable LCD TVs.

• The 42-inch Vizio E3D420VX (starting at $560) boasts 3D capability, which is tough to come by in this price range but perhaps no surprise from a brand known for affordable, feature-rich TVs. This 1080p model has a 120 Hz refresh rate, and reviewers praise the color quality. (Where to buy)
• The 27-inch ViewSonic VT2730 (starting at $300) may not be a big-screen, but it’s inexpensive and ideal for a smaller space. Experts say the picture on this no-frills 1080p TV is sharp and accurate from almost any angle. (Where to buy)
• The 32-inch Sony NSX-32GT1 (starting at $498) incorporates Google TV, so you can browse the web and search for video. Reviewers recommend this 1080p model for the features rather than the image quality. (Where to buy)
• The 42-inch LG 42LK450 (starting at $579) dispenses with extra features but delivers solid performance. Experts appreciate the ability to finely tune each aspect of the picture quality on this 1080p TV. (Where to buy)

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The Horizon Fitness T101 comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

A New Year’s resolution to get in shape may be more likely to lighten your wallet than your weight. Researchers at the University of California at Berkeley and Stanford University found that health club members paying monthly dues of more than $70 didn’t get to the gym often enough to make a membership worthwhile. A visit winds up costing $17, compared with $10 on a 10-visit pass. A budget treadmill costs more than the gym up front, but you are probably more likely to use a machine that’s right there in your home. Moreover, the cost is ultimately offset by months of unpaid membership fees.

A low-cost treadmill won’t suit multiple users who intend to run on it for more than an hour every day. But if you’re more apt to walk or jog, you can find a solid machine for under $600. The cheapest treadmills require you to manually keep the belt moving, rather than relying on a motor, and using a manual treadmill can be difficult enough to discourage you from exercising. Experts recommend spending at least enough to get a model with a motor.

Manufacturers often advertise a treadmill’s peak performance horsepower, which indicates the motor’s maximum capability. However, pushing the treadmill to its limit for long periods can wear down both the motor and the belt. The more important indicator is continuous horsepower, or CHP. This should be at least 1.5 for walking and 2.0 for interval training. The latter involves alternating between high- and low-intensity exercise by adjusting the treadmill’s speed and incline. On some low-cost treadmills, this must be done manually, so look for a machine with automatic incline adjustment.

Experts recommend at least a 54-inch belt for walking and interval training — longer for running and for tall users with long strides. The belt should also be at least 18 inches wide to allow for side-to-side movement, especially if you’ll be running.

Finally, treadmills take a beating and can burn out quickly if they’re not well-made, so don’t buy one without an adequate warranty on the frame, motor, and parts.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable treadmills. All have a maximum speed of 10 mph.

• The Horizon Fitness T101 (starting at $599) boasts a 2.25 CHP motor and a 55 x 20-inch belt. Reviews note its sturdy build, as evidenced by a two-ply belt, 300-pound weight limit, and lifetime warranty on the frame and motor — rare among budget models. (Where to buy)
• The ProForm Performance 400 (starting at $599) has the same size motor, belt, and weight limit, along with a lifetime warranty on the frame, 25 years on the motor, and one year on parts and labor. Reviewers like that this treadmill is compatible with Nike + iPod and iFit Live, which supplements the 15 present workout programs with a vast array of online options (for an extra cost). (Where to buy)
• The Merit Fitness 725T Plus (starting at $400) is primarily a walking treadmill, with a 1.25 CHP motor and a 45-inch belt. Experts and users appreciate the smooth automatic incline and general value for the price. (Where to buy)
• The Gold's Gym GG480 (starting at $377) accommodates runners, multiple users, and people up to 300 pounds without shaking or making too much noise, according to reviews. This machine is best suited to walking, however, with a 1.5 CHP motor and a 50-inch belt. (Where to buy)

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Duracell CopperTop alkaline batteries are lauded for their longevity.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

For months, holiday toys and gadgets have been flashing, spinning, and flying all over TV. The commercials often end with fine print, read at our-lawyers-told-us-to-say-this speed: batteries not included. Perhaps gift tags should come with the same sort of disclaimer. Without the right batteries, even the most marvelous electronic toy is reduced to an inert hunk of plastic.

Before you dash out to pick up any old double-As, know that cheap, no-name batteries made from carbon zinc or zinc chloride cost the least but don’t represent the best value. You’re better off stepping up to a more powerful, longer lasting alkaline or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery from a brand such as Duracell, Sanyo, or Sony.

Alkaline batteries are by far the most common. They power “low-drain” devices such as clocks and TV remotes. NiMH batteries are rechargeable and designed to run digital cameras, power tools, and other “high-drain” devices. A charger costs an extra $15 to $20 up front but saves money in the long run; it can juice up spent batteries hundreds of times, keeping you from having to buy new ones. One drawback to NiMH batteries is that they lose their charge relatively quickly when not in use. Within a month they can creep down to 60 percent capacity — or even less than that if stored at temperatures higher than 70 degrees, according to Green Batteries. The exception is low self-discharge batteries, which employ new technology and come pre-charged.

NiMH and alkaline batteries can be interchangeable, but it’s best to use whichever is recommended for your device. Alkaline units produce 1.5 volts of electric charge and NiMH batteries produce 1.2 volts. The higher the capacity — as measured in milliampere hours, or mAh — the longer the battery should last. Both alkaline and NiMH batteries come in AAA, AA, C, and D. Alkaline batteries can be tossed in the garbage two at a time, while NiMH batteries must be recycled.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable batteries. We’ve recommended either AA or AAA for each one, but performance reviews of one size generally extend to the other as well. Note that batteries come in different size packages depending on the brand and the vendor, so consider the per-unit cost before making a purchase.

• Sanyo Eneloop pre-charged rechargeable batteries (starting at $9.50 for a 4-pack) have a capacity of 800 mAh and can be revived up to 1,500 times. These AAAs win fans for their low rate of self-discharge, which gives them a longer shelf life than other NiMH batteries. (Where to buy)
• Duracell CopperTop alkaline batteries (starting at $10 for a 20-pack) are cited in reviews for their longevity. Consumers and experts report successfully using these AA batteries in devices such as flashlights, smoke alarms, and radios. (Where to buy)
• Sony rechargeable batteries (starting at $8.60 for a 4-pack) boast a capacity of 900 mAh, and for the most part reviewers are satisfied with how long they last. These AAA NiMH batteries can be recharged up to 300 times. (Where to buy)
• Rayovac alkaline batteries (starting at $10 for a 30-pack) are another reliable AA option. Users posting reviews consider them an excellent value. (Where to buy)

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Eric Thayer / Reuters

Catch a breather while you can -- the after-Christmas sales are coming.

Bargain hunters will find some great discounts in the days after Christmas. It won’t be hard to find sale signs boasting markdowns of 70 percent or more. But don’t expect retailers to slash the price of everything in the store, just the things they need to get out the door.

Dealnews.com, a popular website that tracks retail prices, compared last year’s after-Christmas deals to this year’s Black Friday sales and found that post-Christmas sales in 2010 were “notably less exceptional” in terms of top offerings. In other words, while the prices will be good, they won’t always be great.

“You’ll see some of the best sales of the year on apparel,” says Dan de Grandpre, founder and CEO of Dealnews. “Merchants want to clear out their winter merchandise to make room for the new spring items.”

The focus this year, de Grandpre says, will be on brick-and-mortar stores, not online sales. Many retailers, he says, will use their websites to drive shoppers to their stores.

“Sometimes it will be a coupon that you print and take to the store,” de Grandpre says. “Other times it will be another discount on top of the lowest prices available at the store.”

For example, last year on Dec. 26 Gap gave an extra 50 percent off all sale items in the store until noon. Some of the items were already marked down 50 or 60 percent.

Video games also go on sale right after Christmas, even the most recent titles.

“Some of the video game prices we saw last year right after Christmas were the best prices all year, and we’re expecting that again this year,” de Grandpre says.

Is there anything you should avoid buying? You might want to wait on electronics. Dealnews says the markdowns on electronics tend to be so-so right after Christmas. Closeout prices on TVs, laptops and GPS units usually hit early in the new year.

You can also expect another round of clothing sales in January. That’s when you’ll find the biggest discounts on winter apparel.

ConsumerMan Tip: As always, it’s the final price -- not the “percentage off” -- that matters. Take the time to use a price shopping website to find out if that sale price is really as good as it seems.

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Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with meat.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

A premium wine, made from hand-picked grapes grown on tried-and-true terrain and watchfully aged to perfection, makes a generous gift for a loved one with a discerning palate. But if you’re looking for a hostess gift or just something to make a holiday get-together a little more festive, a crowd-pleasing wine can be had for $10 or less. Just don’t tell anyone how much it cost — studies have shown that the price of a wine influences tasters’ perceptions of how good it is. In blind tastings, however, people enjoy expensive wines slightly less than cheaper wines.

Below are Cheapism’s top budget bottles, beginning with the reds.

• Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (starting at $10). We haven’t listed a particular vintage of this plummy, full-bodied Washington wine because many are well-reviewed. Most low-cost red wines are best consumed within a couple of years of bottling.
• Melini Chianti Borghi d'Elsa 2010 (starting at $6). An intensely fruity Italian red that goes as well with pizza as it does with pork.
• Dancing Bull Zinfandel (starting at $10). A rich, full, berry-flavored wine from a California producer known for its zinfandel.
• Mirassou Pinot Noir 2010 (starting at $6). Another California red that’s easy to drink -- not overly alcoholic or bitter, like some budget pinot noirs.

And now for the whites:

• Dr. Loosen Red Slate (starting at $9). A German Riesling with a refreshing balance of acidity and fruit flavors such as mango, apricot, lime, and pear.
• Jacob’s Creek Chardonnay (starting at $7). A dry Australian wine that harbors peach and melon flavors. Chardonnay is the best-selling varietal in the U.S. and capable of complexity even at low prices.
• Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Sauvignon Blanc (starting at $9). Another winner from a producer that consistently delivers high-quality budget wines. Pair this light, crisp wine with white meat or seafood.

Finally, with New Year’s Eve approaching, here’s a look at some of the top champagne under $20. Technically, these are sparkling wines, not Champagne with a capital C, which comes from the eponymous French region and adheres to a specific method of production and standards of quality.

• Roederer Estate Brut NV (starting at $20) comes from California and has a surprisingly full body, according to reviews, which mention caramel, cherry, and cinnamon notes — just right for the holidays.
• Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut NV (starting at $15) is a lively, fruity California sparkler that has won numerous awards.
• The sweeter Freixenet Cordon Negro Extra Dry (starting at $10) is made in the traditional French méthode Champenoise but is actually a Spanish cava, a sparkling wine that offers excellent value and has been dubbed a “Champagne killer.”

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The Nikon Coolpix S3100 bests rivals with 5x optical zoom.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

A digital camera is the sort of holiday gift that’s tempting to snap up when you spot a compelling bargain. But some models under $100 struggle to take high-quality photos and skimp on essential features. A little research can help you find a worthwhile gift or a reliable way to capture some Christmas and New Year’s memories. Here are some things to look for when you’re sizing up a low-cost digital camera.

Resolution is likely the first feature that comes to mind. About five or six megapixels used to be standard for a budget camera — maybe eight at the most. Now any camera you buy should offer at least 10 mp, and many models cram up to 14 mp onto their tiny image sensors. Higher resolution becomes crucial only if you plan to crop out large portions of an image or print photos larger than 8x10 inches. Otherwise, 10 mp should be more than sufficient.

Image stabilization helps produce sharp photos even in low light, when just a slightly unsteady hand can render an image blurry. Image stabilization on inexpensive cameras is usually software-based, relying on digital trickery to produce clear, crisp images. Optical image stabilization is preferable but rare among budget models.

The specs on a digital camera typically include both optical and digital zoom. The latter works by enlarging the individual pixels in an image, which sacrifices sharpness. Optical zoom is the number to note; it ranges from 3x to 5x in this price range. Budget cameras don’t tend to have a viewfinder for composing photos but instead employ an LCD screen on the back, which should measure at least 2.5 inches for easy viewing.

The memory cards that come with digital cameras don’t hold very many photos, so it’s nice to pick up a larger one if you’re giving a camera as a gift — or even buying one for yourself. For high-resolution photos, PhotographyReview.com suggests buying a 1GB card, which usually costs less than $10.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable digital cameras.

• The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 (starting at $80) is the only model on our list with optical image stabilization, and both experts and users rave about its image quality. It offers a solid set of features, including 14 mp resolution, 4x optical zoom, and a 2.7-inch LCD screen. (Where to buy)
• The Canon PowerShot A1200 (starting at $85) comes with 12.1 mp resolution, 4x optical zoom, a 2.7-inch LCD, and HD video recording. Despite a lack of image stabilization, this camera takes photos that impress experts with their crisp detail and vivid colors. (Where to buy)
• The Nikon Coolpix S3100 (starting at $97) boasts 14 mp resolution, HD video recording, and 5x optical zoom — the highest among our picks. It has a 2.7-inch LCD and relies on Nikon’s software-based Electronic VR, or vibration reduction feature, rather than optical image stabilization. Experts praise this slim model for its stylish design and simple operation. (Where to buy)
• The Kodak EasyShare Mini M200 (starting at $50) is about the size of a gift card yet manages to fit a 2.5-inch LCD, and seems tailor-made for a child or teen. It’s easy to use, according to reviews, and comes in red, blue, or purple. The low price is reflected in the specs: 10 mp, 3x zoom, and no image stabilization. (Where to buy)

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The Sanyo ECJ-S35K can be programmed to cook a variety of foods and even bake bread.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

With all the prep involved in a holiday party or Christmas dinner, it’s a good time to consider any appliance that frees up a burner on the stove and some time for the cook to tend to other tasks. Rice cookers can be left unattended and reliably turn out tender, fluffy grains. They won’t suit frugal consumers who are content with the stovetop method, but for those who prefer a sure thing, rice cookers can be had on the cheap. Sanyo, Panasonic, and Aroma all offer well-reviewed budget models that can also make practical holiday gifts.

There are essentially two types of electric rice cookers: simple, on/off models and programmable rice cookers that automatically adjust the cooking time and temperature. The latter come with a timer to ensure the rice will be ready when dinner is. They are more expensive, although you can find a solid performer for less than $100.

The one-button models actually tend to cook more quickly than their pricey counterparts, finishing white rice in as little as 15 minutes (brown rice takes longer, and cooking times vary for other varieties as well). Some basic rice cookers also include a mode that keeps the rice warm after it’s done cooking.

The capacity of a rice cooker is measured in cups -- but not the 240 ml cup used in the U.S. The measuring cups that come with rice cookers are typically 200 ml, the standard in Japan. What’s more, the capacity is sometimes measured in cooked rice and sometimes in uncooked rice, so note which one is indicated in the specs. Six cups of cooked rice is generally enough for a family of four if served as a side dish.

You can get more for your money by employing a rice cooker for other dishes as well, including oatmeal, grains such as quinoa, legumes, soups, and stews. Some rice cookers can steam vegetables or even bake bread. The site Rice Cooker Fetish has recipes for everything from dorm-room mac & cheese to pumpkin pie.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable rice cookers.

• The Sanyo ECJ-S35K (starting at $91) is the only programmable rice cooker on our list. That means it takes a bit longer — 45 minutes on average to make white rice — but it comes with a 24-hour timer. It also keeps rice warm for up to 12 hours. Reviewers note its versatility; they find that it perfectly cooks not just rice but a variety of other foods. (Where to buy)
• The Aroma ARC-1266F (starting at $27) takes 20 minutes to make white rice and can accommodate 6 cups uncooked (12 cups cooked). It automatically switches to a warming function when the rice is finished. Users appreciate that it comes with a steamer tray and call it an excellent value. (Where to buy)
• The Panasonic SRG-06FG (starting at $25) cooks up to 3.3 cups of white rice in 30 minutes, yielding up to 6 cups. This no-frills model earns plaudits in reviews for being easy to use. (Where to buy)
• The Zojirushi NS-RNC10 (starting at $92) is pricey for an on/off cooker, but reviews note that it's made by a highly regarded Japanese brand. It can cook 5.5 cups of white rice in just 15 minutes, making a total of about 10 cups. Users marvel at its speed and like that it automatically keeps rice warm for up to 12 hours. (Where to buy)

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Intex Raised Downy Queen Airbed was the largest of the models we recommend.

By Kara Reinhardt, Cheapism.com

It’s less than a month before Christmas, when the children will nestle all snug in their beds — provided there are enough beds, that is. If you have family and friends coming in for the holidays, an inflatable air mattress can make a cost-effective guest bed. While visions of sugarplums might be a stretch, loved ones can rest in relative comfort for less than $70.

Size dictates price to a certain extent, but you can find up to a queen-size air mattress on a budget. Heights range from between 5 and 8 inches for camping to about 25 inches, comparable to the height of a mattress and box spring. Higher air mattresses tend to be more expensive and feel more like beds. It’s also easier to lie down on and get up from a mattress that approximates the height of a bed. However, a shorter, narrower bed works fine for young children. Just be sure never to place an infant on an air mattress. The Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that the soft surface of an air mattress poses a risk of suffocation.

Many budget air mattresses come with some type of pump included. A built-in electric pump is easiest to use: Just plug it in, turn it on, and watch the mattress inflate. (Pricier models sometimes come with a remote control.) A separate pump costs $10 to $50 more, so if you buy a mattress without a pump, be sure to factor that in.

Low-cost air mattresses tend to be made from easy-to-clean, puncture-resistant vinyl such as polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Many feature a top surface with a soft texture to prevent sliding. Multiple air chambers translate to a firmer (and often more expensive) mattress. Some air mattresses also contain “coils” that connect the top and bottom to help prevent sagging.

Below are Cheapism’s top picks for affordable air mattresses.

• The Intex Raised Downy Queen Airbed (starting at $50) is the largest on our list. It’s made with two air chambers on top of each other, measures 22 inches high, and features a built-in electric pump. Hundreds of user reviews vouch for its comfort and durability. (Where to buy)
• The Coleman SUV Quickbed (starting at $25) is designed to fit in the back of a sport utility vehicle. At 41 inches, it’s just wider than a twin, making it a bit compact for two people. Users find it a comfortable, cheap choice for car camping. (Where to buy)
• The versatile Coleman 4-in-1 Quickbed (starting at $40) can function as two twin beds, zip together as a king, or stack up as one tall twin bed. Reviewers say it works best in the twin configurations. (Where to buy)
• The AeroBed Guest Choice Air Bed (starting at $58 for a twin, $65 for a queen) comes with a stand-alone electric pump that quickly inflates the mattress. Reviews deem it a good short-term option for overnight guests. (Where to buy)

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